Leisure World News • COMMUNITY • November 2024 A29
New Mural at Walmart: “Mesa’s Wild Oasis” Interview provided by Resident Alan Baird A massive mural was recently installed in Walmart’s entry hall on Southern near Power, created by Tucson-based artist Jennifer Smiley (JenniferSmileyArt.com). Her latest artwork is part of Walmart’s Community Mural Program (WalmartMurals.info). When I contacted her, she told me the mural was entitled “Mesa’s Wild Oasis.” Alan C. Baird: You live more than 100 miles away from the mural scene you created. How did you develop the idea?
Jennifer Smiley: Phoenix feels like a second home, with many friends and family there. So when given a list of what makes Mesa stand out, I was already familiar with it, which made creating the mural much easier. ACB: You obviously possess a lot of natural talent. Did you have any formal training in art? JS: I studied Animation and Illustration and have a lot of experience in the field, along with being largely self-taught. ACB: How did you choose the landmarks you put into the mural: the Salt River, the Superstition Mountains, and Leisure World’s iconic 40-foot globe?
JS: I received a list of things that make Mesa unique, and I was familiar with all of them! I’ve been tubing on the Salt River since childhood and hiking in the Superstition Mountains, so I felt confident capturing their essence. Leisure World is an incredible community with an impressive sculpture, and I was excited to portray that community spirit. ACB: Your image was transferred to thin strips that were then rolled onto the wall in Walmart’s entryway. What was the original artwork: watercolor, painting, pencil sketch? JS: The mural combines hand-drawn elements, which were then finalized digitally.
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